We had the great opportunity to welcome Elder Juan Bravo to Salt Lake last night. He arrived from Jersey to begin his mission in the Salt Lake City mission. Juan was one of the recent converts Menny and I worked with in Jersey City. He is an amazing young man. He is a pioneer in his family. He converted his younger brother and baptized him after only being a member himself for 2 weeks. He was the best member missionary I had on my mission. He would give up much of his time to help the "Hermanas fritas".
Last night I realized how much love and respect I have for this young man. Before letting him go we took him out for ice cream. At the table he told us that his mom didn't even know he was out here. He just laughed and said, " I guess she will find out when I call at Christmas ! "
He has survived much persecution from his family after becoming a member. I remember going to pick him up for lessons and getting the door slammed in our face by his brother-in-law. But minutes later Juan would come prancing through the door with a big grin and his libro de mormon in hand. It took him almost 2 years to save his money to be out here. With no support from home but lots and lots of love from the missionaries and ward members, he will serve our Heavenly Father for 2 years. I couldn't be happier for him!
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